Technology
Small Firm, Big Presence – Your 2010 Challenge
Column: My Perspective
Dec. 01, 2009
From the December 2009 Issue
For 2010, it’s all about strategy — implementing the right technologies
and workflows to achieve the efficiency gains required to operate a successful
firm. The technology exists all around us, and if you haven’t been paying
close attention, then you’re missing out on some great new stuff.
I took over as Executive Editor almost a year ago, and what fun I’ve had
meeting with software vendors, speaking at conferences, and learning about all
the incredible new solutions that are being developed. Even better, I’ve
had a great time realizing that technology and vendors are not standing still;
they continue to evolve … as should every firm. If you are not, then you
are losing ground.
By the time the year ends, I will have facilitated 26 webcasts about new solutions,
workflows and products. We have three podcasts that are recorded every month:
Tech2Go, SBC2Go
and DMA2Go.
If you want to stay up-to-date on technology issues, small business consulting
concepts, or learn the latest ideas around document management, you should subscribe
to the free downloads and join us each month. Did I mention all the
webcasts are FREE, and they offer FREE CPE?
As I look back at 2009, I see the following topics as priorities that all
firms should consider in order to move forward:
- Portals — This technology is getting better and
more cost-effective every day. - Hosted Solutions — Read my feature
article and Randy Johnston’s column
in this issue(both on Client Accounting Online) to learn more about the value
of hosted solutions – and don’t miss our webcast on this topic in January
2010; www.CPATechAdvisor.com/webcast. - SaaS (Software-as-a-Service) — More solutions are
moving to this economical and convenient model. - Websites — Use your website to create a big presence
for your small firm (see our recent coverage of website builders at www.CPATechAdvisor.com/go/2639).
YOUR 2010 CHALLENGE…WHAT DOES IT MEAN?
I challenge small firms to get up to speed on today’s most advanced solutions
and begin to elevate their presence. The average size firm in the United States
is comprised of about 3.4 employees, so almost all firms are considered “small.”
But despite size, developing a bigger presence can easily be accomplished with
the Internet and the technology solutions I mentioned above. Your website is
another critical element for boosting presence.
Think about it, by harnessing the power of technology, all of us can compete
with the big guys. Whether its Chase.com or Fidelity.com, we can support the
same level of web service to our clients that they do. The more connected we
are with our clients, the easier it is for us to service their needs.
I’ve been practicing for more than 25 years. The last 10 have been the
best, and I think the next 10 years are going to be even better. We have solutions
today that I only dreamed of a few years ago. I love our profession and genuinely
enjoy meeting and talking with everyone in it. I’m passionate about helping
firms move forward to create a practice that brings in elevated profits and
supports a true work/life balance.
2010 is going to be a great year, and I see the web and connectivity with
our clients playing an ever-increasing role. I challenge you to start thinking
about how to improve your firm for 2010.
For example, as you get ready for busy season, make sure that you have reviewed
your tax workflows and at least considered using portals for tax return delivery.
Also, have you documented and evaluated your tax workflow to identify where
you can make efficiency improvements? Once into tax season, it’s too late
to adjust!
You’ve got a lot to think about, so if there’s anything I can do
to help guide you, please feel free to send me an email: droot@root.com.